By Markus Rode, Director of Open Doors Germany

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Again and again it is simultaneously a miracle and a sign of the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, that he uses a small beginning to bear great fruit, is it not? The first three nurse missionaries from Korea were sent out as five loaves and two fish for German Campus Mission and they trusted in Jesus. Jesus has used these bread and fish to bring the gospel to other nurses and to many young people, gradually unfolding the ministry of UBF.

Faith in the Greatness of our Lord was and is the requirement to experience the power of the holy spirit in the calling for a ministry. Since the first missionaries 40 years ago, the ministry of UBF in Germany and Europe has been growing and bringing blessings to many.

Another characteristic of a ministry that follows Jesus and is called to conquer land for the Lord is courage. Before Joshua entered the promised land, God commanded him several times, “Be strong and courageous.“

Looking back on the last four decades of commissioning Korean nurse missionaries, the founder of UBF, Dr. Samuel Lee, was a devoted follower of Jesus and an encourager. He prepared the missionaries for their mission and also strengthened the small ministry in Germany.

In a world which becomes more and more godless, now after 40 years of blessed ministry UBF is challenged to continue this important ministry with courage and by faith in Jesus. This will surely not be possible without attacks from the enemy (Satan), who works hard to stop the traces of blessing. But with the assurance that Christ, who has sent us out like “sheep among wolves”, is with us as our loving shepherd and encourages us – dear brothers and sisters – to walk forward courageously.

For the years to come I would like to share one word from the Bible with you, that has often been a comfort and direction in my life and ministry, and on which lies a great promise, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Finally I want to thank UBF, on behalf of all co-workers from Open Doors, that UBF has collected an offering for the persecuted North Korean brothers and sisters, who go through many sufferings because they believe in Christ. Please continue to pray for these brothers and sisters to remain strong in their faith. May Jesus continuously use the ministry of UBF in Germany and all the world to bring people to Christ and strengthen their faith. Be strong and courageous!